Injury Forces Starc to Be Out for Long Time
The Delhi Capitals have received a early jolt ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season, with former Australia cricketer Mitchell Starc ruled out for at least three more matches.
Starc, who has not yet linked up with the Delhi squad this season, is currently recovering from shoulder and elbow injuries suffered during the 2025–26 international calendar. According to team management sources, the left-arm fast bowler is not expected to return until after April 20, effectively ruling him out of several key games in the first phase of the tourney.
Matches Set to Be Missed
Based on the team’s itinerary, Starc is slated to be ruled out of upcoming matches against:
- Gujarat Titans on April 8
- April 11 vs Chennai Super Kings
- On April 18 vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru
All of these fixtures are seen as crucial in establishing early momentum for Delhi in the tournament. His absence takes out an important part of the team’s pace attack, particularly in both the powerplay and death overs.
Rehabilitation and Recovery Timeline
Starc has been rehabbing shoulder and elbow injuries that have kept him on the shelf, under white coats’ watchful eye. It is reported that the injury was aggravated as Australia played through the two recent series, and they learnt the full extent only after the conclusion of their domestic summer.
The 36-year-old Death bowling specialist has publicly commented on his absence. He clarified that his wait to join the IPL franchise is only due to fitness reasons. He described recovering before resuming competitive cricket as the priority.
Effect on Delhi Capitals’ Bowling Unit
Starc’s absence led to extra responsibility on Delhi’s pace arsenal. Bowlers such as Mukesh Kumar and other seam options also being able to step up in the early matches, ensuring that the team has continued to put in competitive performances despite the absence of their overseas spearhead.
Delhi Capitals have bounced back strongly after the initial stage of the tournament, delivering solid performances despite missing one of their marquee signings. Yet the experience and ability to deliver breakthroughs in pressure moments that Starc brings are hard to find.
The franchise invested huge in Starc through past auctions and hoped that he would spearhead their bowling attack, taking wickets and winning matches for them. His ongoing unavailability poses questions of squad equilibrium and long-term bowling strategy.
Strong Start Despite Setback
Delhi Capitals have had a decent start to their IPL 2026 campaign despite the absence of their premier fast bowler. The team has two solid wins from their first match and they have deeps in both the batting and bowling departments.
The team’s flexibility has been apparent in recent shows, including a convincing victory over the Mumbai Indians. With contributions from veteran and emerging players alike, Delhi has kept pace in the early standings.
Team Management Remains Hopeful
Team officials are hopeful Starc will be fit to return, potentially coming back in time for the match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 21. (more) The franchise has not provided an official update on his status, but is keeping a close eye on how Lakewood progresses.
Delhi Capitals’ management, led by captain Axar Patel has remained assured of the current team and will keep waiting for Starc’s report. Management has also stated that replacement plans for the pacer are not on their radar, reiterating their belief in his recovery and importance to the team.
Delhi Capitals Set for Pivotal Stage
Delhi Capitals is looking to gain momentum and solid ground as IPL 2026 enters its early phase. The team’s depth and consistency will be tested the most, with teams lined up for challenging fixtures going forward and no foreign pacer to assist.
Starc’s return timeline will not only be the focus for Delhi Capitals as the tournament progresses, but also for fans watching how the team’s title ambition unfolds.